The Virginia Department of Education on Thursday released a draft of its new guidance on how school divisions should implement Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s order for a “cellphone-free education.” The governor last month issued Executive Order 33 to keep cellphones out of the classroom in order to address distractions and mental health concerns.
The governor tasked the education department with defining “cellphone-free education.” Staff hosted multiple meetings throughout the state with parents, educators and community members before drafting the guidelines. The department also met with other stakeholder groups to discuss the new directive. The full draft is available on the department’s website and open for public comment through Sept. 15.
Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera said: “Virginia parents and teachers have witnessed first-hand the damage cell phones in schools has had on our youth’s academic, mental and physical health and social development. Communities are committed to implementing common sense approaches to restore vibrant and healthy learning environments for all our children throughout the commonwealth.”
The draft guidance defines cellphone-free education in Virginia’s schools as “bell-to-bell,” meaning phones should be turned off and stored away from the first bell at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the school day. This will include lunch and time in between class periods.
“By refocusing our students’ attention back into learning and away from their phones and social media, all our children will have a better opportunity to learn and succeed academically,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons.
The guidance differs by grade level, with phone use completely banned on school grounds at elementary school. At the middle school level, individual divisions will determine appropriate use in the building and on school grounds before or after the school day. At the high school level, students will be allowed to use their devices before or after school.
Exceptions will be made through individualized plans for students who need phones to monitor medical conditions. Divisions have been directed to create clear communication plans with parents in case of emergencies.
The final guidance will be released on Sept. 16, and school divisions will need to adopt policies and procedures by Jan. 1.
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